Commission Addresses Licensing Issues Affecting Funeral Homes and Crematories

Licensing issues took center stage at the Texas Funeral Service Commission (TFSC) meeting on August 27, 2025, as industry members voiced urgent concerns over the backlog of delinquent licenses affecting funeral homes and crematories across the state.

Commissioner Brown highlighted a troubling statistic: as of the last meeting, there were 192 individuals, 31 crematories, and numerous establishment licenses that remained delinquent. While many of these licenses had been paid for and background checks completed, the lack of follow-through has left many professionals in limbo, jeopardizing their livelihoods. “You end up with crematories that online, it says they're delinquent. So funeral homes aren't gonna go use them,” Brown explained, emphasizing the erosion of trust within the community.

The ramifications of these licensing delays are severe. Some licensees reported threats of job loss from employers if their licenses remained in bad standing. “This is their livelihood,” Brown stated, underscoring the critical nature of timely license processing. The situation has led to some cemeteries refusing to allow delinquent establishments to conduct burials, further complicating matters for those affected.

Commissioner Brown expressed frustration over the lack of responsiveness from the commission regarding these issues, stating, “How do you tell someone that it's in the process when they've done everything they're supposed to do?” This sentiment was echoed by other commission members, who acknowledged the disheartening reality faced by licensees trying to navigate the system.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for the TFSC to address these licensing challenges to restore confidence in the industry and ensure that funeral service professionals can operate without fear of losing their jobs or reputations. As the commission moves forward, stakeholders are hopeful for a resolution that prioritizes the livelihoods of those they represent.